Prospect Profile: Emmanuel Steward (2020 Grant HS/Nike Team Northwest)
We’d seen him in action before – specifically at Portland State Team Camp. But at Portland State Elite camp, Emmanuel Steward really started to stand out. The lanky 6-foot-2, 150-pound guard has always been a pure shooter, but in the drills and games the rising junior showed off a diverse offensive game and may very well have been the unofficial MVP of the event.
“It was a good experience and I learned a lot that I didn’t really know before,” Steward said. “I learned what I need to work on, like my handles, zone drills, and off the dribble stuff, and that I’ve got to play harder on defense.”
Steward – known as Manny to most around Portland – really shot it well from the perimeter at camp. He has a very smooth stroke with a quick release and he can catch and shoot it, or take a dribble or two and launch it too. At the event he didn’t really force anything and was also able to get out and score in transition as well. The performance came off a July where he played with Nike Team Northwest.
“I did Ok in Vegas and I did the best I could,” Steward said. “I’m focusing on improving my defense.”
From a recruiting standpoint, Steward remains a bit under the radar. But with his performance at camp and the upcoming season at Grant – he played at Benson last year – Steward is hoping for some options. “I’m not really looking for anybody (specific),” Steward said. “But schools like (PSU) would be good.”